This Air Fryer Broccolini is an ideal vegetable side dish when you're short on time and want to avoid using the oven. It's easy, delicious, and ready in under 10 minutes! Broccolini is a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli, belonging to the brassica family. It has a milder flavor than broccoli, and the entire plant, including the leaves, is edible. I love broccoli, but broccolini is much easier to prepare. There's no need to manage thick stems or chop off florets; simply trim the ends and you're done! You can serve broccolini as a side with almost any dish, including stir-fries, grain bowls, or pasta.
Ingredients
This quick Air Fryer Broccolini recipe is perfect for a speedy side dish. Seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and lemon, it yields tender, roasted broccolini with crispy edges.
- Broccolini: Also known as “baby broccoli,” broccolini is similar to broccoli but features smaller florets and a milder taste. It has long, thin stalks that are tender throughout. Simply trim the ends, and it’s ready to air fry!
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: While spray avocado oil is often used for air fryer recipes, broccolini tastes best when made with olive oil.
- Seasoning: Use your favorite seasonings. For this recipe, I kept it simple with onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Lemon: Add lemon after air frying to prevent excess moisture, which can cause the broccolini to steam instead of roast. I like to char the lemon in a pan for extra flavor before adding it to the broccolini.
Enjoy this delicious and easy side dish with your favorite meals, whether it’s stir-fries, grain bowls, or pasta dishes.
Helpful Equipment
You’ll need an air fryer for this Air Fryer Broccolini with Garlic and Lemon recipe. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can coat the broccolini in the seasonings and bake it in the oven for 12-15 minutes.
Please note that cooking times may vary depending on the brand of air fryer. Check the broccolini every few minutes to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Once it’s golden and crispy, it’s ready to serve!
How to Make This Recipe
Ingredients
- Broccolini: Trimmed and ready to cook.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: For coating.
- Seasonings: Onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Lemon: For adding a fresh touch after cooking.
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccolini: Trim the broccolini and toss it with olive oil and your chosen seasonings.
- Air Fry: Place the seasoned broccolini in the air fryer basket. It’s fine if there’s a little overlap, but consider frying in batches if needed.
- Air Fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes: Check frequently, as smaller pieces can burn quickly. I prefer a slightly charred finish, so I often leave mine in a bit longer.
- Serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the broccolini before serving.
Note: Air fryers can vary in performance. When trying this recipe for the first time, keep a close eye on the broccolini. Check at the halfway point and again in the last 1-2 minutes to prevent burning. Enjoy this quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish with your favorite meals!
Topping Ideas
Broccolini, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper are tossed together and air-fried to create a flavorful, crisp, and easy side dish.
For a simple finish, add a squeeze of lemon or get creative with additional toppings:
- Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle a pinch just before serving for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Cheese: Grate vegan parmesan over the top with some red chili flakes and lemon zest. Add during the last few minutes of air frying.
- Herbs: Depending on your main dish, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro would be a great addition sprinkled over the top.
Enjoy this versatile and delicious side with any meal!
Storage
Air Fryer Broccolini with Garlic and Lemon is a delightful vegan dish best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be made in advance.
Storage: Store any leftover broccolini in an airtight container and consume within 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the broccolini in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.
Freezing: This recipe does not freeze well, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh or shortly after preparation.
Tips & Tricks
When Air Fryer Broccolini with Garlic and Lemon making for the first time, keep in mind that air fryers can vary. Monitor the broccolini closely, checking it at the halfway point and during the final 1-2 minutes of cooking.
Adjustments: You may need to slightly adjust the temperature and/or cook time depending on your specific air fryer.
Preparation:
- Wash and dry the broccolini thoroughly. Removing excess moisture ensures that the broccolini roasts properly instead of steaming.
- Avoid overcrowding: For the best results, do not overcrowd the air fryer. It’s recommended to bake in batches.
Finishing Touch: Add the lemon juice at the end. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the broccolini just before serving to avoid adding unwanted moisture, which can cause it to steam rather than roast. This will ensure your Air Fryer Broccolini with Garlic and Lemon turns out crisp and flavorful every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 How long do fresh broccolini last?
Fresh broccolini lasts around 7 days when stored properly. It’s an ideal vegetable to keep in the fridge for a quick dinner. Make sure to keep broccolini chilled from the time it’s picked until it reaches your home to ensure it remains fresh.
2 Can you eat soft broccolini?
Yes, you can eat soft broccolini, but it is best cooked. Due to its softer texture, broccolini can taste a bit wilted when eaten raw. You can prepare it in the same ways you would use broccoli.
3 What does broccolini taste like?
Broccolini has a mellower and less bitter flavor compared to regular broccoli. It also has a mild sweetness similar to Chinese broccoli.
4 Is broccolini natural?
Yes, broccolini is natural. It is a hybrid of broccoli and gai lan (Chinese kale/Chinese broccoli), created in Japan in the 1990s through traditional hand-pollination methods, not genetic engineering. It is sweeter and milder in flavor than broccoli, with some noting a hint of pepper.
5 Is there protein in broccolini?
Yes, there is protein in broccolini. Seven pieces of broccolini contain 35 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 67% carbs, 0% fat, and 33% protein. It is also a good source of vitamin A (30% of your Daily Value) and vitamin C (130% of your Daily Value).